Plovdiv: Valley of the Thracian Kings and Augusta Trayana Tour
Step back in time and uncover the fascinating legacy of the Thracians and Romans in Bulgaria. This full-day tour blends ancient tombs, Roman streets, and Neolithic settlements, offering a journey through over 7,000 years of history in a single adventure.
Embark on an unforgettable exploration of Bulgaria’s rich historical tapestry. Your journey begins in the Valley of the Thracian Kings, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled among lush green hills. Here, you will discover the grandeur of ancient Thracian civilization through five remarkable tombs, learning about the rituals, beliefs, and treasures of kings and queens who ruled this land more than 2,000 years ago. The serene surroundings of the valley add to the magic, allowing you to appreciate the harmony between history and nature.
Next, travel to Stara Zagora, a city where centuries of human history are layered beautifully from the Stone Age to modern times. Enjoy lunch in the vibrant city center before exploring Augusta Trayana, a Roman city founded in the 2nd century AD by Emperor Trajan. Walk along original Roman streets, visit the ancient council building, and admire perfectly preserved mosaics in the remains of a Roman house, gaining insight into life during the Roman Empire.
The tour continues to the Museum of Religions, housed in the early 15th-century Eski Mosque, built atop layers of Christian churches and a Thracian temple. Witness the fascinating interplay of faiths across millennia, expressed through hidden paintings and preserved architecture. Finally, travel even further back in time to the Neolithic settlement, exploring two of Europe’s best-preserved prehistoric houses and an archaeological collection that illuminates the lives and spiritual practices of people from the 7th millennium BC. This immersive journey offers a unique blend of culture, architecture, and archaeology for an extraordinary full-day experience.
Approximately 10.5 hours
- Explore five Thracian tombs in the UNESCO-listed Valley of the Thracian Kings
- Discover Augusta Trayana and walk the streets of a Roman city with original mosaics
- Visit the Museum of Religions housed in a historic mosque with layers of spiritual history
- Step into the Neolithic age and explore well-preserved prehistoric houses
- Gain expert insights from a guide specialized in History and Archaeology
Prices start from 89 EUR (exact pricing may vary based on group size and additional services).
- Air-conditioned vehicle for the full day
- Professional guide with expertise in History and Archaeology
- All entrance fees to listed sites
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Pickup from your hotel/accommodation in Plovdiv at 08:00.
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Drive approximately 2 hours to the Valley of the Thracian Kings and tour five impressive tombs.
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Continue to Stara Zagora, enjoy lunch in the city center.
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Explore Augusta Trayana, walking original Roman streets and viewing mosaics in ancient houses.
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Visit the Museum of Religions in the historic Eski Mosque.
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Journey to the Neolithic settlement and explore two exceptionally preserved prehistoric houses and the archaeological collection.
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Depart Stara Zagora and return to Plovdiv, with drop-off at your accommodation.
- Stroller/pram accessible; infant seats available
- Not wheelchair accessible
- No public transportation nearby
- Cancellation policy: 100% fee if cancelled 1 day or less before the tour; free cancellation up to 1000 days in advance
- Small-group tours recommended for a more personalized experience
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This tour is the perfect way to see the “other” side of Bulgaria beyond Plovdiv. Stara Zagora is a beautiful, green city, and the Roman mosaics at Augusta Trayana are in stunning condition. We loved the balance of exploring silent tombs in the morning and the vibrant city center for lunch. It’s a long day, but every stop offers a new “wow” moment. Definitely wear comfortable shoes for the Roman streets!
I still can’t believe we saw a 7th-millennium BC settlement and a 15th-century mosque in one afternoon. The Neolithic houses are remarkably preserved; you can almost see the early families living there. The Museum of Religions was another standout—seeing the layers of a temple, church, and mosque all in one spot is a powerful lesson in cultural continuity. A fascinating, jam-packed day of discovery.
A dream come true for any history buff! Standing inside 2,000-year-old Thracian tombs and then walking on original Roman streets in the same day is mind-blowing. The UNESCO-listed frescoes in the valley were a personal highlight. Our guide was clearly an expert, providing deep context that made the ancient ruins feel alive. Truly one of the most comprehensive archaeological tours I’ve ever taken.